LESS IS MORE
ELKEME, the HELLENIC RESEARCH CENTRE FOR METALS S.A., is a member of the VIOHALCO group, a brand that is identified with the development of the metallurgical industry in Greece. ELKEME produces and exchanges technology on a global scale.
A 4.000 m2 large, 30 years old, warehouse building, situated next to ELVAL S.A. plant in Oinofyta, has been renovated to accommodate ELKEME’s new premises. 4.000 m2 of laboratories and office space were created with the construction of a mezzanine floor, while larger machinery is placed in the remaining 2.000 m2 high ceiling space of the warehouse.
Enlargement and renovation of a primary school building aiming to meet the highest contemporary educational and energy efficiency standards. The design of the addition gave priority to regaining morphological unity, which had been lost due to various past additions and modifications. The building is formed by two wings that are distinguished by their color creating a playful result.
Extension of an industrial plant office building that dates back to the 70s. An updated, contemporary version of the old building’s light paneling has been applied onto the new facades.
Three storage buildings were laid out around a main service yard while adapting to the slope of the site (one of these is yet to be built). The office building develops in length integrating outdoor space with the interior layout. On both sides of a long corridor, office and outdoor space alternate offering maximum window surface.
A design that conformed to the typical demand, for commercial buildings of the time, for maximizing the above ground floors’ total surface and volume, while minimizing the design process timeframe.
Even more, this particular building’s structural grid was based on maximizing the number of underground parking spaces, to satisfy a state sponsorship plan that promoted this! The upper building’s design also gave priority to commercial and functional choices and followed a minimalistic approach.
This is a rearrangement of a 1970s building in the centre of Athens that has remained unexploited ever since it was built. Taking advantage of its unique position and views of the city, today’s plans are geared towards high-end hospitality.
Modern simplicity has been applied to the new design of the facades, as well as to interior layout and design. Windows were enlarged, and the windowsills were lowered so as to form seating that looks out towards the views.
A narrow outdoor space, formed as an extension of a small swimming pool, brings natural light into all rooms, allowing for smaller windows around the upper perimeter (thus more privacy). The upper floor’s introversion is negated on the ground floor, where the living room blends with the garden.
Renovation of the old administration office building on the industrial premises of HALCOR S.A. in Oinofyta.
The added on external shed, formed with perforated zinc panels attached to a metallic structure, offers shade but also clear views from the interior during daylight hours, while at the same time looking fairly opaque from the outside. The metallic structure also incorporates an additional external staircase.
